The Toyota Yaris (XP150, facelift 2017) 1.3-liter variant, producing 94 horsepower (101 hp on Ethanol – E85), with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) was a key offering in Toyota’s subcompact lineup from 2018 to 2020. This model represented a mid-cycle refresh of the XP150 generation Yaris, designed to enhance fuel efficiency and appeal to buyers seeking an economical and practical city car. It occupied an entry-level to mid-range position within the Yaris range, offering a balance between affordability and features. The XP150 platform was shared with other Toyota and Peugeot models, reflecting a collaborative manufacturing strategy.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Yaris 1.3 CVT is the 1NR-FBE engine, a 1.329-liter (81.1 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is naturally aspirated and utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system. The 1NR-FBE is known for its simplicity and reliability, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. It features a compression ratio of 13:1 and utilizes Toyota’s VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligence) system on the intake camshaft to optimize engine breathing across a wider range of engine speeds. This contributes to improved fuel efficiency and a smoother driving experience.
The engine produces 94 hp at 5600 rpm and 122 Nm (89.98 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm when running on gasoline. When fueled with E85 ethanol, the engine output increases to 101 hp at 5600 rpm and 127 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine oil capacity is 3.3 liters (3.49 US quarts / 2.9 UK quarts), and the cooling system holds 4.9 liters (5.18 US quarts / 4.31 UK quarts). The 1NR-FBE engine also incorporates a particulate filter to reduce emissions.
Paired with the 1NR-FBE engine is a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission). This transmission type offers seamless gear changes and contributes to the Yaris’s fuel efficiency. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, a CVT uses a belt and pulley system to provide an infinite number of gear ratios within its operating range. This allows the engine to operate at its most efficient speed for any given driving condition.
Driving Characteristics
The Yaris 1.3 CVT delivers a comfortable and predictable driving experience, prioritizing ease of use over sporty performance. Acceleration is adequate for city driving and merging onto highways, but it’s not particularly brisk. The CVT transmission contributes to a smooth, linear power delivery, although some drivers may find it lacks the responsiveness of a traditional automatic or manual transmission. The CVT’s programming is tuned for fuel efficiency, which means it often holds lower engine speeds during gentle acceleration. The weight-to-power ratio of 12 kg/hp and a weight-to-torque ratio of 9.2 kg/Nm reflect the car’s focus on efficiency rather than outright speed. Compared to other Yaris variants, such as those equipped with a manual transmission or a larger engine, the 1.3 CVT offers less spirited performance but superior fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2018-2020 Yaris 1.3 CVT typically came standard with features such as air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration, and a rearview camera. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included navigation systems, upgraded audio systems, and parking sensors. The dashboard layout was straightforward and user-friendly, prioritizing practicality and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Yaris 1.3 CVT utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension is an independent McPherson strut type, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The rear suspension is a torsion beam setup, which is a cost-effective and space-efficient solution. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums. This combination is typical for vehicles in this weight class and price range. The steering system is an electric power steering rack and pinion, providing light and easy steering feel. The Yaris 1.3 CVT rides on 185/60 R15 tires mounted on 15-inch wheels.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Toyota Yaris 1.3 CVT was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical city car. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, and its reliability was praised, consistent with Toyota’s reputation. However, some reviewers noted its lack of performance and the somewhat uninspiring driving experience. Compared to other trims in the Yaris lineup, the 1.3 CVT offered the best fuel economy but the least amount of power. Against competitors like the Honda Fit, Nissan Versa, and Hyundai Accent, the Yaris 1.3 CVT held its own in terms of fuel efficiency and reliability, but often lagged behind in terms of interior space and driving dynamics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Toyota |
| Model | Yaris |
| Generation | Yaris (XP150, facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 (94/101 Hp) Ethanol CVT |
| Start of production | 2018 year |
| End of production | 2020 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / Ethanol – E85 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 94 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power (Ethanol – E85) | 101 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Torque | 122 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque (Ethanol – E85) | 127 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 1NR-FBE |
| Engine displacement | 1329 cm3 |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 72.5 mm |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | VVT-i |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.3 l |
| Coolant | 4.9 l |
| Kerb Weight | 1125 kg |
| Max. weight | 1550 kg |
| Max load | 425 kg |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 310 l |
| Fuel tank capacity | 45 l |
| Length | 4145 mm |
| Width | 1730 mm |
| Height | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2550 mm |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 150 mm |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Legacy
The 1NR-FBE engine, paired with the CVT transmission, has proven to be a reliable powertrain in the Yaris. While not known for its performance, it has earned a reputation for durability and fuel efficiency. In the used car market, the Yaris 1.3 CVT remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and dependable city car. Maintenance costs are generally low, and parts availability is good. However, potential buyers should be aware of the CVT transmission’s maintenance requirements, including regular fluid changes. Overall, the Yaris 1.3 CVT represents a sensible and practical option for those prioritizing economy and reliability over sporty driving dynamics.
